With the warm weather, it’s not only us humans getting out and about in nature, our animal friends, including snakes are moving around too.

Consequently, it’s a good time of year to equip yourself with safety tips to manage snake encounters and learn a little about these fascinating creatures.

Our Bushland Management and Biodiversity teams said that we have dozens of snake species on the Northern Beaches, including land and sea snakes.

Although most are unlikely to inflict a wound that could lead to serious illness or death you need to be prepared in case you, someone you know, or a pet is bitten.

You need to be especially mindful of tiger snakes, death adders and red-bellied black snakes. While they are rarely encountered in our backyards these snakes are present in larger bushland areas.

Other mildly venomous snakes include the golden-crown snake, yellow-faced whip snake and marsh (swamp) snake.

We also have habitats which include the non-venomous and rather beautiful green tree snake and the mildly venomous brown tree snake.

And of course, the iconic diamond python (largely dwelling in trees and sometimes on roofs) which are harmless, but due to their size can appear rather intimidating!

Top safety tips

• Leave the snake alone! Most snake bites happen when people try to kill or capture them. If you come across a snake, don't panic. Back slowly and gently away to a safe distance and let it move away. Snakes often want to escape when disturbed.
• If bitten, call an ambulance immediately
• Don't panic and don't move a bitten person or animal
• Apply a pressure immobilisation bandage and splint
• Don't wash, suck, cut or tourniquet the bite.

Learn more from Health Direct.

Snake Relocation Assistance:

If you find a snake in your yard or home and would like it relocated, please call either:

• Sydney Wildlife Rescue on (02) 9413 4300 (24/7)

• NSW WIRES on 1300 094 737.